How often do you reach for your phone when you want to know the time? In this digital age, it’s all too easy to forget about the sophistication of the clock, one of man’s greatest scientific achievements. The colour and craftsmanship of some of the world’s earliest clocks make them quite literally timeless pieces which have continued to garner much enthusiasm when sold at auction. Join us as we delve into the historic art of horology in our list of the world’s most expensive clocks ever sold.
5. Thomas Tompion Clock
Clocks of impeccable pedigree and precision are often produced in very small quantities. Being 1 of only 3 clocks produced at the turn of the 18th century by England’s most acclaimed watchmaker, Thomas Tompion, it's no wonder that this clock sold for €1.9 million in 1999.
Image source: Moneyinc
4. Late 18th Century Automaton Clock
This late 18th century masterpiece was purchased in 2015 by Chinese billionaire investor, Liu Yiqian for a staggering €2.8 million. Only a few Chinese Imperial clocks from the Guangzhou workshop are in private hands, meaning that the sale of this one naturally attracted a great number of interested bidders. The clock portrays the 8 immortals of Taoism at their home on Penglai, a magical mountain. The figures themselves move, bringing this musical automaton clock to life.
3. Chinese Ormolu Clock
The age and sheer beauty of this Ormolu clock make it one of the most impressive timepieces ever made. Produced over 200 years ago during the Qianlong period (1763 - 1795) in China, not only has this exquisite clock stood the test of time but its intricate design features automata as well as music. The sounds of bells and birdsong complement two Chinese figures who continuously move against a backdrop of leaping fish and painted flowers. It sold for a whopping €3.7 million at auction in 2008.
Image source: Artron
2. Duc d’Orleans Breguet Sympathique Clock
Swiss horologist, Abraham-Louis Breguet, handcrafted the ground-breaking Sympathique clock design in 1795. This ingenious and elaborate design likely provided the inspiration for the smart phone docking stations we know today. One pocket watch becomes synchronised with the main Sympathique clock when it is placed on the automata. With only ten original Sympathiques functioning today, these clocks are especially hard to purchase. Most remain prized possessions within family dynasties and this is likely why, when this particular example came up for sale in 2012, it sold for a staggering €5.2 million at auction.
Image source: Forbes
1. Rothschild Faberge Egg
The most expensive timepiece sold also happens to be the smallest example of all the clocks in this list. Sold to a Russian collection in November 2007, the Rothschild Faberge Egg garnered an inconceivable €13.5 million at auction. Peter Carl Faberge’s eggs are akin to opulent Easter eggs and were traditionally designed by the Russian jeweller every year for Tsar Alexander III’s family, until their abdication and execution in 1917. This Faberge Egg was designed for the French Rothschild family as an engagement present and is regularly renowned as the world’s most beautiful. A translucent pink colour, it features precious metals, rare gemstones and a cockerel which animates every hour to announce the passing of time.
Image source: Moscow Times
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